Seat Belt Safety A Crucial Traffic Law for a Reason

The seat belt is the most important safety device in a vehicle, and its proper use can prevent serious injuries and save lives. In a crash, a seat belt holds the driver or passenger in the vehicle so that they are less likely to be ejected from the vehicle or struck by objects inside the vehicle. Seat belts also help to keep the driver or passenger in the correct position for airbag deployment. The government is also trying to mandate the introduction of a new alarm system that will alert all the passengers in the car when not wearing seat belts.

The importance of traffic rules regarding seat belt safety cannot be understated. Seat belts have reduced the risk of death by up to 45% and the risk of serious injury by up to 50%.

Despite these clear benefits, many people still don't wear seat belts regularly, and Indian commuters are oblivious to traffic laws and road safety rules pertaining to seat belts.

In India, car accidents are the major cause of death for people ages 15-44. And while seat belts can help prevent fatalities, only about half of Indian drivers and passengers resort to them.

Why do passengers in rear seats not buckle up?

It only takes a few seconds, but it can mean the difference between life & death. There are several reasons why people don't wear seat belts in the rear seat.

• People are not aware that rear-seat belts exist.

• People feel that the backseat is safer than the front, and wearing a seatbelt is not a high priority in road safety rules. However, it's important to remember that even if you're sitting in the backseat, you're still at risk if you don't buckle up.

• They are unaware that wearing rear seat belts is a part of traffic rules.

• People do not want to ruin their clothes, not knowing that it's required by law.

Data to Inspire You to Buckle Up

India is notorious for road fatalities, and many occur for not fastening their seat belts. According to data from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), 48% of passengers killed in road accidents that happened in 2016 weren't wearing their seat belts.

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has issued standards for auto manufacturers regarding the alert systems (alarms) on not wearing seat belts, both front & rear. Wearing seat belts was made mandatory in 2005 in India. Breaking this law can lead to a penalty of INR 1000/-. SaveLIFE Foundation found recently that less than 1% of people in India use rear seat belts. We should be more aware of the necessity of seat belts and the fallout of not buckling up.

Conclusion

Wearing seat belts, both front and rear, are equally important, and it is one of the most crucial traffic rules for good reason - it can save your life.

In a crash, you're more likely to be injured if you're not wearing a seat belt. So, buckle up every time you get in the car, no matter where you're sitting. Moreover, also have your car insurance in place to tackle these unforeseen accidents. Get your car insured by the top insurance provider with pretty reasonable plans.